The February half-term is a great excuse to explore London with the kids, whether you’re looking for hands-on museum exhibits, outdoor adventures or some good old West End magic. Special events, family-friendly activities and countless free things fill the city, leaving little time for boredom.
From uplifting exhibitions to fun theatre shows, we’ve rounded up the best ways to entertain little ones during February half-term. From rainy days to crisp winter sunshine, there’s something for every family.
Things to do in February half-term with kids in London
Exhibitions
The Robot Zoo
Location: Horniman Museum, Forest Hill
When: 14 February – 2 November 2025
Discover the mechanics behind nature’s marvels with robotic animals like a rhino and a squid with 18-foot tentacles. This interactive exhibit reveals how real animals function, making it a hit with curious minds.
Making Egypt
Location: Young V&A, Bethnal Green
When: From 15 February 2025
Journey through Egypt’s rich history, from ancient times to today. Highlights include a 3,000-year-old funerary boat and a LEGO model of the Great Pyramids, offering a blend of education and fun.
Barbie: The Exhibition
Location: Design Museum, Kensington
When: Until 23 February 2025
Explore Barbie’s evolution since 1959, featuring 180 dolls, including rare editions and the first dolls representing diverse backgrounds. A nostalgic and inspiring experience for all ages.
Dressed to Deliver
Location: The Postal Museum, Clerkenwell
When: 18 – 23 February 2025
Dive into the history of postal uniforms from the Victorian era to today. Kids can engage in crafts, storytelling, and even try on some uniforms, making history tangible and fun.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Location: Natural History Museum, South Kensington
When: Until summer 2025
Marvel at stunning wildlife photographs that captivate and inspire. Ideal for older children and teens interested in nature and photography.
Events
Imagine Festival
Location: Southbank Centre, South Bank
When: 18 – 23 February 2025
A vibrant celebration of children’s literature and arts, the Imagine Festival offers performances, workshops, and interactive activities tailored for ages 0-11. Highlights include storytelling sessions, creative workshops, and live music, ensuring a delightful experience for young minds.
Gorgeous Georgians Trail
Location: Osterley Park and House, Isleworth
When: 17 February – 31 August 2025
In collaboration with Horrible Histories, this trail takes families through the estate, offering ten engaging activities that shed light on Georgian life. It’s both educational and entertaining, making history come alive for children.
Family Festival: The Art of Play
Location: Dulwich Picture Gallery, Dulwich
When: 15 February 2025
This festival invites families to explore the concept of play through creative workshops. Activities include marbling, badge-making, toy theatre performances, and storytelling sessions, all inspired by the gallery’s exhibitions.
Out at Sea Festival
Location: Queen’s House, Greenwich
When: 15 – 23 February 2025
As part of LGBTQ+ History Month, the Queen’s House hosts a series of family-friendly events, including storytelling sessions, character performances, and choir performances. It’s a celebration of diversity and history in a welcoming environment.
How Does Food Shape Us?
Location: V&A South Kensington
When: 19 – 21 February 2025
Families can engage in activities exploring the relationship between food, culture, and design. Workshops include fruit preserve making, poster creation, and sensory screenings of beloved children’s stories, offering a blend of education and fun.
Family-Friendly Activities
Shrek’s Adventure! London
Location: South Bank
When: Open daily
Step into the world of Far Far Away with this immersive attraction based on the Shrek films. A mix of live actors, 4D effects, and interactive storytelling make it a hit with younger children. Expect laughter, adventure, and a chance to meet beloved DreamWorks characters like Donkey and Puss in Boots.
KidZania London
Location: Westfield London, White City
When: Open daily
Perfect for curious minds, KidZania is an indoor city where kids can role-play different jobs—from firefighters to doctors and pilots. It’s a hands-on, educational experience that lets them earn KidZos (the in-house currency) while learning valuable life skills. A great way to combine fun and learning.
Tower of London Family Tours
Location: Tower of London
When: 17 – 25 February 2025
Explore the Tower of London with special family-friendly tours. Led by expert storytellers, these tours bring history to life with tales of kings, queens, and even the Tower’s resident ravens. It’s an exciting way to engage children with the city’s medieval past.
London Transport Museum’s Family Explorer Zone
Location: Covent Garden
When: Open daily
This interactive zone at the London Transport Museum is designed especially for children under seven. They can climb on mini vehicles, dress up as conductors, and explore the history of London’s iconic transport network in a playful and engaging way.
Go Ape Battersea Park
Location: Battersea Park
When: Open daily (weather permitting)
For active families, Go Ape offers an exhilarating treetop adventure. With zip lines, wobbly bridges, and climbing challenges, it’s a great way for kids to burn off energy while enjoying the great outdoors. The location in Battersea Park makes it a fun day out in nature without leaving the city.
Free Things To Do
Science Museum Wonderlab Free Days
Location: South Kensington
When: Select dates during February half-term
The Science Museum’s Wonderlab is usually ticketed, but on special days during half-term, families can enjoy free entry. Packed with hands-on experiments, live demonstrations, and interactive exhibits, it’s a brilliant place for curious minds to explore physics, chemistry, and space.
V&A Museum of Childhood
Location: Bethnal Green
When: Open daily
Recently revamped, the V&A Museum of Childhood offers a nostalgic and engaging experience for all ages. Kids can interact with historic toys, dress up, and explore creative play spaces. There are also free storytelling sessions and craft workshops throughout half-term.
Changing of the Guard
Location: Buckingham Palace
When: 11:00 AM on select days (check the schedule online)
This world-famous ceremony is a must-see for families visiting London. Watch as the King’s Guard, dressed in their iconic red uniforms and bearskin hats, perform a precision march accompanied by a military band. It’s a great way to introduce kids to British tradition and pageantry.
Sky Garden
Location: Fenchurch Street
When: Open daily (booking required)
Offering stunning views of London’s skyline, the Sky Garden is a unique indoor green space filled with lush plants and panoramic vistas. Entry is free, but you’ll need to book in advance. It’s a peaceful and beautiful spot for families to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Hackney City Farm
Location: Hackney
When: Open daily except Mondays
A little slice of the countryside in the heart of East London, Hackney City Farm lets kids get up close with goats, pigs, chickens, and donkeys. There’s also a charming café and a small vegetable garden, making it a great place to enjoy a slower-paced morning with little ones.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Location: Stratford
When: Open daily
The legacy of the 2012 Olympics lives on in this vast park, which offers adventure playgrounds, fountains to splash in, and plenty of open space for kids to run around. It’s a great spot for a relaxed family day out with a picnic.
Theatre Shows
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Location: Gillian Lynne Theatre
When: Various dates during February half-term
Step through the wardrobe into the magical world of Narnia in this spectacular stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved novel. With breathtaking puppetry, dazzling effects, and an enchanting score, this production is a must-see for families who love a classic adventure.
Room on the Broom
Location: Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue
When: 14–25 February 2025
Julia Donaldson’s much-loved story comes to life in this fun-filled adaptation featuring catchy songs, clever puppetry, and plenty of audience interaction. Perfect for younger children, this heartwarming tale follows a kind-hearted witch and her animal companions on a magical journey.
Matilda The Musical
Location: Cambridge Theatre
When: Ongoing
Roald Dahl’s feisty heroine takes centre stage in this multi-award-winning musical. Packed with high-energy performances, witty lyrics by Tim Minchin, and a rebellious spirit, Matilda The Musical is an inspiring, feel-good show that will delight kids and adults alike.
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out
Location: Theatre Royal Haymarket
When: 15–23 February 2025
Perfect for little ones, this lively stage show follows Peppa and her friends on a day of exciting adventures, from a trip to the zoo to a ride in a hot air balloon. Expect plenty of sing-along moments and giggles as Peppa and her pals bring their world to life.
Wicked
Location: Apollo Victoria Theatre
When: Ongoing
For older kids and tweens, Wicked offers a spellbinding take on the untold story of the witches of Oz. With show-stopping songs, stunning special effects, and a powerful story about friendship and standing up for what’s right, it’s a dazzling spectacle that will leave a lasting impression.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Location: Theatre Royal Haymarket
When: 11–17 February 2025
Based on Judith Kerr’s beloved book, this charming stage adaptation brings the whimsical tale of an unexpected tiger visitor to life. With engaging storytelling, catchy songs, and a touch of nostalgia for parents, it’s a delightful experience for younger audiences.
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